City transportation officials have announced a ban on unsanctioned cyclists during the NYC Marathon to ensure safety and accessibility.
The New York City Department of Transportation announced the ban in an email to run club leaders, stating that street closures on November 2 are meant for emergency vehicles, event setup crews, and medical tents.
For decades, cyclists have used the 26.2 mile course for early morning rides before sunrise, taking advantage of empty streets. However, with limited opportunities for street takeovers in the city, such as the Five Boro Bike Tour in May and Summer Streets in August, this ban may impact cyclists' ability to ride safely.
Since at least the early 1990s, cyclists have used large stretches of the course to organize rides in the early morning hours.
The ban aims to prioritize safety and accessibility during the NYC Marathon.
Author's summary: NYC bans unsanctioned cyclists from marathon course.